Thomas Henry

author

Thomas Henry

1734–1816

A Welsh-born doctor and chemist who built his career in Manchester, he helped connect everyday medicine with the practical science of the Industrial Revolution. Best known in his own day for popularizing magnesia and soda water, he was also part of the lively intellectual world that shaped early modern chemistry.

1 Audiobook

Experiments and Observations on the Following Subjects 1. On the preparation, calcination, and medicinal uses of Magnesia Alba. 2. On the solvent qualities of calcined Magnesia. 3. On the variety in the solvent powers of quick-lime, when used in different quantities. 4. On various absorbents, as promoting or retarding putrefaction. 5. On the comparative antiseptic powers of vegetable infusions prepared with lime, &c. 6. On the sweetening properties of fixed air.

Experiments and Observations on the Following Subjects 1. On the preparation, calcination, and medicinal uses of Magnesia Alba. 2. On the solvent qualities of calcined Magnesia. 3. On the variety in the solvent powers of quick-lime, when used in different quantities. 4. On various absorbents, as promoting or retarding putrefaction. 5. On the comparative antiseptic powers of vegetable infusions prepared with lime, &c. 6. On the sweetening properties of fixed air.

by Thomas Henry

About the author

Born in Wrexham on October 26, 1734, Thomas Henry trained as an apothecary before establishing himself in Manchester as a physician, chemist, and man of science. His work moved easily between medicine and experiment, and he became known for improving the preparation of magnesia alba, a remedy that brought him wide recognition and the nickname "Magnesia Henry."

Henry was active in Manchester's scientific and literary life and became one of the leading figures of the Manchester Literary and Philosophical Society. He was elected a Fellow of the Royal Society in 1775, reflecting the respect he earned for his chemical and medical work.

He died in Manchester on June 18, 1816. His legacy also continued through his family: he was the father of the chemist William Henry, later known for Henry's law, linking Thomas Henry to another important chapter in the history of science.